Ryan turned, saw Jeremy there, and flashed a bright smile. His T-shirt was dark blue, with red and white letters. PROUD AMERICAN was all it said. He held out his hand for a shake. Sorry, he said. Still a little sweaty.

No problem, sir.

Okay, Ryan said. Enough with the sirs. In private, you call me Bill. If that feels too hard, call me by my title. But I want you to know something. I requested you, and Im giving you an exclusive. Late this afternoon, I may end up giving a press conference with all the media. I dont know yet. But until then, all day long, my thoughts on this crisis are going to be under your byline. How does that feel?

It feels great, Jeremy said. Its an honor. But why me?

Ryan lowered his voice. Youre a good kid. Ive been following you for a long while. And I want to give you a piece of advice. Totally off the record. After today, youre no longer an attack dog. Youre a seasoned journalist. I want you to print what Im about to say word for word, but starting tomorrow, I want you to become slightly more… nuanced, lets say. Newsmax is great for what it is, but a year from now I see you at the Washington Post. Thats where we need you, and it will happen. But first, people need to believe youve matured and grown into a so-called fair and balanced, mainstream reporter. Whether you have or not isnt important. Its all about perceptions. Do you understand what Im telling you?

I think I do, Jeremy said. His blood roared in his ears. The words were exciting and terrifying all at once.

We all need friends in high places, the Speaker said. Including me. Now fire away.

Jeremy took out his telephone. Recorder is on… now. Sir, are you aware of the massive theft of radioactive material that took place in New York City overnight?

I am more than aware, Ryan said. Like all Americans, I am deeply concerned. My aides woke me at four a.m. with the news. We are in close contact with the intelligence community, and we are monitoring the situation closely. As you well know, I have been working to pass a Congressional Declaration of War against Iran, which the President and his party have been blocking at every turn. We are in a situation where Iran is occupying our ally, the sovereign nation of Iraq, and our own personnel have to pass through Iranian checkpoints to enter and leave our embassy there. I dont believe there has been a series of events so humiliating since the Iran hostage crisis in 1979.

Do you believe this theft was carried out by Iran, sir?